Joey Evans speaks about his journey from addiction to alcohol to getting a second chance in life
“Sometimes all it takes is one moment of awareness to make a difference. Behind every overdose is a human being, a person with hopes and struggles, loved ones, and a story that matters. Overdose awareness is an opportunity to replace judgment with compassion, and silence with conversation, and fear with understanding.
“Today, we remember those we have lost, stand beside those who are still struggling, and remind one another that hope, hope, and a second chance are always worth fighting for. There was a time when addiction had complete control over my life. Every decision I made pulled me further away from the person I was meant to be, until the consequences became impossible to ignore, addiction didn’t just affect my spirit; it nearly took my life. Multiple years of medical issues leading into a near 12-hour heart surgery forced me to confront the reality of where my choices had brought me. That surgery became a life-saving procedure. It became a second chance. It was my rescue mission. Recovery wasn’t just about healing my heart. It was about rebuilding my life. Day by day, I chose sobriety, accountability, and hope over the pain that once defined me. Today, standing on the other side of that journey, I have the incredible privilege of working at UConnect here, helping others find the same hope that was once afforded to me. It is a true full circle moment. The life that addiction tried to steal has become a life of purpose, service, and compassion. My story is proof that recovery is possible.”
Genesee/Orleans County Health Department Director, Paul Pettit talks about resources in the community. Pettit says the community has lost 100 people to overdose since 2020.
“We have a lot of different ways that people can engage in services in our community, and that list continues to grow. So, if you know someone who’s struggling, help them find support. Many resources are available, and organizations that are here today to help those in our community. We have an online platform across our three counties called Credible Minds, Thrive Mentally and Spiritually – Expert and user rated resources for a better life which is a platform that provides online access for anybody in our community anytime, 24/7.”
“So, we’d encourage folks to tap into that resource, and again, support our local efforts. We do have an active GOW Cares Alliance GOW Cares that meets regularly. That’s doing great work across the three counties. We have a lot of work groups and a lot of activities that are very active and that you can participate in. We welcome you. We want you to be part of the solution and be part of the work that we’re doing.
“Moving forward, we’re continuing to expand resources, connect people to services and look for new ways to prevent overdose and save lives. Our goal is simply not to respond when an overdose happens, but to help people get the support they need before they reach that point. So again, today on Overdose Awareness Day, we remember those that we’ve lost, we support those who are struggling and remain committed to saving lives in our community.”
Celebrating Sue Gagne and her 25 years of service in mental health and recovery. She was acknowledged for her leadership, compassion and dedication to the community.
